‘Shadow Schools’ give Minnesota parents options during COVID-19 distance learning

"Shadow Schools" are giving Minnesota parents options as they juggle work schedules with distance learning as the new school years begin across the state.

These programs will allow students to get their daily assignments from their teachers, but they’ll be able to complete their homework away from home while their parents work.

The YMCA’s Vice-President of Operations, Stephanie Chauss, told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS the Y’s 17 locations, including Rochester, will offer these types of services.

"So, the students will have their devices provided by the school districts, all the technology," said Chauss. "They’ll have their own headsets and they’ll be seated with social distancing and our leaders will wear masks and make sure their assigned school work is getting done."

Chauss said this will be done with close consultation with the schools and the parents so there is a clear path of learning and understanding of expectations each day.

"We’re relying on schools and school districts to help train our team members," said Chauss. "We want our team to be comfortable with whatever platform the assignment is on and it becomes a combination of camp counselor and teacher coming together."

Other places, such as Life Time Fitness, are also offering similar programs.